Destruction of smallpox

[Michael@Mizzou1.Missouri.edu A.@Mizzou1.Missouri.edu VincentDr.@Mizzou1.Missouri.edu Michael@Mizzou1.Missouri.edu A.@Mizzou1.Missouri.edu Vincent@Mizzou1.Missouri.edu, Curator TEL: 513-529-2755]

I do not think that keeping the smallpox virus alive is a wise
choice.  If the genetic code of the virus is needed for future
research, then isolate the genetic material and destroy the organism.

Why keep something around that could destroy the next generation of
(unvaccinated) people?

Should we ever decide to completely destroy atomic weapons, who would
argue in favor of keeping a few around "for future research"?

Dr. Michael A. Vincent, Curator    TEL: 513-529-2755
W.S. Turrell Herbarium (MU)        FAX: 513-529-4243
Department of Botany
Miami University
Oxford, Ohio 45056 USA
Email: Vincenma at MUOhio.edu